More than a million cyberattacks are carried out daily against Windows systems. And this serves as a serious warning sign for every user to have the best antivirus for Windows to stay protected from phishing attempts, malware, and other online threats. The right antivirus not only safeguards your personal information and digital activities but also helps your device run smoothly without interruptions.
However, with so many options available, each claiming to be the top antivirus software for Windows, it can be challenging for an average user to choose the right one. The key is to select an antivirus that aligns with your usage, provides reliable protection, and delivers performance without compromising your device's security.
Top Rated Antivirus For Windows UK
Here are the top-rated antivirus options for Windows users in the UK, carefully selected from the best antivirus software available today. Each one is known for delivering reliable performance for everyday home use.
Bitdefender Total Security
Bitdefender Total Security
Fast, trusted antivirus for Windows that keeps your PC running smoothly and securely.
Bitdefender Total Security is one of the best antivirus programs for Windows, offering advanced ransomware protection. Founded in 2001 in Romania, Bitdefender quickly became known for its powerful malware‑detection engine and is now called the best UK AI antivirus.
Features
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Multi-layer ransomware protection.
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Anti-phishing, anti-fraud, anti-spam.
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Safe online banking (“Safe Pay” browser) and secure transactions.
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VPN with a daily data limit (Bitdefender VPN).
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File shredder, webcam protection, vulnerability assessment.
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Performance optimization (“Photon”), game/movie/work modes.
USP:
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Very comprehensive protection: lots of advanced security tools (ransomware, anti-phishing, safe online banking).
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Cross‑platform: works on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
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Less system impact: designed to run without slowing down your device too much.
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Value for multiple devices: a single license can protect many devices.
Norton 360 Deluxe
Norton 360 Deluxe is a top Windows antivirus known for its all-in-one protection, including VPN, backup, and online safety tools. With a strong reputation since the 1990s, it’s one of the best antivirus for business and also ranks among the best antivirus with a password manager.
Features:
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Secure VPN (no-logs) for safe, private browsing.
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Dark Web Monitoring: notifies you if your personal info is found on the dark web.
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Password Manager: stores & manages your passwords securely.
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50 GB Cloud Backup for PCs (protects important files).
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SafeCam: alerts & blocks unauthorised access to your webcam.
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Parental Controls: manage your children’s online activity.
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AI‑powered Scam Protection: helps detect scams, even deepfake texts/videos.
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Smart Firewall (on PC).
USP:
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All-in-one security suite: antivirus + VPN + dark web monitoring + backup + parental controls.
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Scam Protection: using AI to defend against online scams and deepfake techniques.
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Multi-device: supports up to 5 devices on one plan.
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Cloud backup integration: helpful for protecting files against ransomware or device loss.
Avast Premium Security
Avast was founded in the Czech Republic in the late 1980s/early 1990s, and is the best free antivirus for Windows 7 and Windows 10. It began as a simple virus scanner but now offers antivirus, VPN, cleanup tools, and extra security in one package.
Features:
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Email scam protection: detects phishing and suspicious attachments.
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AI-powered Avast Assistant: warns about potential threats.
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Ransomware protection.
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Firewall: helps block unauthorised access to your PC.
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Safe online banking: verifies and protects banking sites.
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Data Shredder: securely deletes files you want to permanently remove.
USP:
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Affordable premium protection: Reasonable price for full-featured protection.
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Scam & email defence: strong tools against phishing and suspicious emails.
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Multi-device flexibility: supports up to 10 devices per license.
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User-friendly: intuitive UI + AI assistant makes security accessible.
Kaspersky Internet Security
Kaspersky Internet Security, founded in 1997, is known for strong home protection and now includes identity safety and VPN tools. It’s a great pick if you need an antivirus with VPNs and also ranks among the best antivirus for small business thanks to its reliable security features.
Features:
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Online payment protection: secures your transactions.
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Unlimited superfast VPN (in newer “Plus” versions).
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Identity Protection: helps monitor your personal data.
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Smart Home Monitor/network monitor to detect vulnerabilities.
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Kaspersky Safe Kids (free 1‑year on some plans).
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Password manager (on specific plans).
USP:
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Strong performance vs malware: consistent protection and reliable detection.
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Focus on identity + payments: protects against online banking, identity leaks, and personal data breaches.
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VPN included for added privacy (in many plans).
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Doesn’t overly burden system resources.
ESET Internet Security
ESET is a cybersecurity company from Slovakia that has been around since the 1990s. It is known for being very light on your computer so that it won’t slow systems down
Features:
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Wi-Fi network protection warns about potentially unsafe network connections.
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Device performance: very small system footprint, low resource usage.
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Smart home & mobile protection: can secure PCs, phones, and IoT devices.
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Anti-theft features: track, lock, or wipe missing devices.
USP:
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Low resource usage: ideal for users who don’t want their antivirus slowing down their PC.
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Suitable for mixed devices: covers PCs, smartphones, and IoT devices.
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Strong anti-phishing + secure banking: protects financial transactions.
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Dependable & stable: ESET has a strong reputation for detection and stability.
UK’s Best Antivirus Price Comparison
Users usually choose antivirus software based on both features and price to fit their budget. Here’s a quick overview of the prices of the best Windows antivirus software in the UK:
|
Antivirus Software |
UK Price (1 Year / Devices) |
|---|---|
|
Bitdefender Total Security |
£38.01 for 5 devices |
|
Norton 360 Deluxe |
£38.01 for 5 devices |
|
Avast Premium Security |
£53.22 for 10 devices |
|
Kaspersky Internet Security |
£31.17 for 3 devices on the Advanced plan |
|
ESET Internet Security |
£83.46 for 5 devices on the Ultimate plan |
FAQs
Do I Really Need Antivirus Software on Windows?
Yes, Windows comes with built-in protection (Microsoft Defender), but a third-party antivirus adds extra layers, such as advanced threat detection. It helps keep your system safer from evolving cyber threats.
Can I Run Two Antivirus Programs at the Same Time?
No, running multiple real-time antivirus programs is not recommended. It can slow down your computer and may cause software conflicts.
How Often Should I Run Virus Scans?
Use real-time protection for ongoing defense and run full scans weekly or monthly. Always keep your virus definitions up to date to ensure maximum security.
Cyber threats and attacks will only continue to increase. So, it's no surprise that installing antivirus software on your Windows system is one of the best ways to stay protected. Finding the best antivirus software for Windows is easier when you compare features, price, and device compatibility. Focus on the protections you require, and pay only for the features you want, to ensure you get the antivirus solution that is right for you.
You can also watch for UK cyber monday and Black Friday antivirus deals. When combined with anti-phishing tools, Anti-Malware Tools, and AI-security tools, they offer stronger protection against rising types of phishing attacks. Whether you need the best SaaS security tools, or a quick online antivirus scan, these options help keep your system secure without overspending.
Stay tuned to Virtual Codes Vaults for updates on the best antivirus software for Windows.
